There could hardly have been a more perfect setting for the wedding of Charles Ong and Nicole Liok when they tied the knot recently at Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral.
The proud parents of the groom, Jojo and Marilou Ong, and parents of the bride, George and Sylvia Liok, shared the happiness that filled the cathedral as the young couple exchanged vows in a solemn Mass officiated by Msgr. Roberto Alesna.
Not a minute late, Nicole appeared stunning and beautiful in a Duchess satin embroidered gown encrusted with pearls, beads and crystals by fashion designer Philipp Tampus. She joined her parents midway down the aisle.
The groom, alongside his best man, his brother, Neil Anthony, stood teary-eyed as he watched his blushing bride timidly approach him. Hand-in-hand they knelt for the nuptial Mass.
Witnessing the union were Bobby Ong, William Jang, James Tan, Eduardo Hitosis, Raladin Mojica, Jose Sy, Nehlby and George Liok, Carol Ai Peng, Janjan Bacaltos, Gertrude Abarquez, Gloria Seno, Amanda and Ana Liok, Tetta Baad, and author Honey Loop. The groom’s sister, Crystal Chloe Ong, was maid of honor.
Reception followed at Marco Polo Plaza Hotel. Cocktails and appetizers were served at the well-appointed lobby prior to dinner.
At the magnificent ballroom, tables were adorned with tall, mirrored vases surrounded by enchanting flower centerpieces and scented candles lovingly put together by florist Pinky Chang. All 800 of the couple’s guests feasted on a luxurious selection of dishes.
The very much-in-love couple wanted the wedding to be a mixture of Spanish and Chinese traditions. They did away with the formality of the receiving line and kept the speeches simple.
Over dinner, an AVP presentation, which was shot in Palompon, Leyte, where Nicole had many happy childhood memories, told of the couple’s love for each other.
The entertainment provided by violinist Jay Cayuca mesmerized and captivated guests with his talent and boundless energy. The bride danced with her father and the groom with his mom, which was a moving and endearing highlight.